We all need them! I am often impressed with some of the relationships in Scripture. Daniel had three friends: Mishael, Azariah, and Hananiah; better known as Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego.

These three friends of Daniels shared the same depth of faith and belief in Israel's God to the point where they supported Daniel's decision to not eat the king's meat. Now, this could have been the line drawn in the sand for them because they would be giving up a great menu of food everyday.

These four young men took a stand, together, for what would be more pleasing to God (Daniel 1).David had a friend in Jonathan, King Saul's son (1 Sam 18:1-4). In chapter 19:4, Jonathan makes an appeal to his father, King Saul, to refrain from doing anything wrong against his friend, David. He stands up for David!

What is the spiritual tone in your friendships with others? When the chips are down, do your friends come through for you? How far would they go for you? Would they be willing to sacrifice their comfort to stand in a challenging situation remaining by your side?

Usually, when it gets too hot in the kitchen, as we say, crowds get thin. People run and hide for self preservation. You could find yourself standing all alone to take the heat. You could experience ostracizing, or abuse, depending on the situation. Don't think that just because you are a 'Christian' that won't happen. Think again! I speak from experience.

There are friends and there are 'FRIENDS'! When I refer to someone as my friend, I speak to some critical period in my life where they helped me or was of good to great support for me. We have many acquaintances, but fewer friends than we think.

​"But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Thank God that when all else fails, God tops the list of faithful and true friends. At the end of the day, He is all I need and want!